

Arpeggio of Blue Steel: Ars Nova
By 2039, global warming had caused sea levels to rise and large amount of territory to be lost. As though in response, a mysterious group of warships clad in mist, “the Fleet of Mist,” appeared in every corner of the ocean, and began attacking human ships. In spite of humanity mustering all their strength, they were utterly defeated by the Mist's overwhelming force. All of humanity's trade routes were blockaded by the Fleet of Mist, their political economy was destroyed, and the human race was steadily beaten down. Seven years later, the Fleet of Mist's submarine I-401 appears before cadet Gunzo Chihaya. The humanoid life form that pilots the sub, who should be their enemy, is instead offering her services to mankind.
Insights
Plot Summary
In a future where global warming has rendered Earth's surface uninhabitable and oceans have risen, humanity lives in fear of the mysterious "Fleet of Fog." These sentient battleships, led by the enigmatic "I-401," possess advanced technology and powerful weapons. A young man named Gunzou Chihaya and his crew, aboard a rebuilt I-401, are the only ones who can challenge the Fleet of Fog's dominance and potentially reclaim the seas for mankind.
Critical Reception
Arpeggio of Blue Steel: Ars Nova was generally well-received by fans of the original manga and anime series, praised for its stunning CGI animation and faithful adaptation of the source material. While not a mainstream critical darling, it resonated with its target audience for its intricate naval warfare and compelling character dynamics.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for its high-quality 3D CG animation and detailed ship designs.
- Appreciated for its action-packed naval combat sequences.
- Seen as a satisfying continuation for fans of the series, though newcomers might find it dense.
Google audience: Audience reviews often highlight the visual spectacle and the intense naval battles as major strengths. Many viewers enjoyed the unique premise and the character development of the sentient warships.
Fun Fact
The animation studio Sanzigen is known for its extensive use of 3D CGI, which was crucial in bringing the complex designs of the "Fleet of Fog" warships to life with remarkable detail.
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